An offset gooseneck ball hitch has a shank received in a vertical OEM gooseneck socket and an offset hitch ball provided on an offset body. A frame connection structure allows the offset gooseneck ball hitch to mate into at least two different OEM puck spacings relative to the vertical OEM gooseneck socket. The frame connection structure preferably includes a driver side transverse anchor assembly having a driver side anchor, a passenger side transverse anchor assembly having a passenger side anchor, and a longitudinal connection weldment securable to the driver side transverse anchor assembly, to the passenger side transverse anchor assembly, and to the offset body. The offset body preferably includes a pivot handle for securing the shank in the vertical OEM gooseneck socket, and the anchors preferably each include a T-bolt with a handle for pivoting the T-bolt within the OEM puck socket.
A tow electrical tester includes a housing having a socket defining positions for at least four electrical connections between a towing vehicle and a towed vehicle, with the preferred embodiment shown having seven such socket positions. A plurality of indicator LEDs are exposed on a distal end of the housing. An electrical circuit within the housing connects each LED in a circuit branch between a common/ground socket position and one of the other socket positions. The electrical circuit includes a primary series resistor within the housing arranged in series for each LED, which protects the LED and adjusts the forward voltage across the LED. For at least some of the circuit branches, a secondary parallel resistor is added within the housing arranged in parallel with the associated primary series resistor and indicator LED, thereby increasing current draw within that branch to meet the requirements of “trailer present” detection circuits.
G01R 31/00 - Arrangements for testing electric propertiesArrangements for locating electric faultsArrangements for electrical testing characterised by what is being tested not provided for elsewhere
A weight distribution hitch system has a head and a horn which are readily separable. The horn is attachable to the towing vehicle. Forward of the hitch ball, the head includes a downwardly projecting hook portion. The head defines a head hitch pin opening spaced from the hook portion, and the mating interaction between the hook portion and the rest recess allow the horn hitch pin opening to be aligned relative to the head hitch pin opening to allow insertion of a hitch pin to complete the hitching connection. Two snap-up brackets are attached to the trailer frame and used to lift the weight distribution spring bars each using a handle. The head with its hitch ball and weight distribution spring bars as well as the snap-up brackets can be left attached to the trailer frame even when not being towed.
B60D 1/167 - Draw-gear or towing devices characterised by their type consisting of articulated or rigidly assembled bars or tubes forming a V-, Y- or U-shaped draw gear
B60D 1/52 - Traction couplingsHitchesDraw-gearTowing devices characterised by the mounting removably mounted
A removable gooseneck hitch ball has a hitch ball extending over a neck and supported by a shank, possibly with the hitch ball on a pivoting head. The shank has a plurality of arc contact surfaces (such as four) collectively defining a cylinder centered on the shank's central axis. Flat contact surfaces extend parallel to the shank's central axis and inside the cylinder defined by the arc contact surfaces (such as four flat contact surfaces defining a square). The shank can be matingly received in a cylindrical socket of the towing vehicle with the arc surfaces in contact with the cylindrical socket or can be matingly received in a prism shaped (square in horizontal cross-section) socket with the flat surfaces in contact with the prism shaped socket.
A hitch tightener is used around the lip of a hitch receiver tube and a shank inserted into the hitch receiver tube. The hitch tightener has a U-bolt with two threaded legs, and a crossbar with throughholes for the legs of the U-bolt, positioned so the crossbar and the U-bolt encircle the shank and the receiver tube lip. A standard threaded nut holds the crossbar onto one of the legs, and a cam lock lever is pivotally attached on the other leg by a threaded trunnion nut. When the cam lock lever is pivoted from its opened position to its closed position, it moves the crossbar toward the connecting portion of the clamp component, tightening the hitch tightener around shank and lip.
A brake controller is provided as an inline plug between the towing vehicle and the towed vehicle or trailer. The electronics including an accelerometer and wireless communication radio are potted within a brake controller housing package. There is no conventional display or input controls on the exterior of the brake controller package. Input settings, and possibly output messages, are communicated through a smartphone or similar software or hardware application. The brake controller can identify a hazard lighting condition and avoid braking the towed vehicle during the hazard lighting condition, and can also distinguish when braking during signaling a turn, using the turn signals of the towing vehicle.
B60T 8/17 - Using electrical or electronic regulation means to control braking
B60Q 1/00 - Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor
B60Q 1/44 - Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to indicate the vehicle, or parts thereof, or to give signals, to other traffic for indicating braking action
H01R 13/66 - Structural association with built-in electrical component
H01R 31/06 - Intermediate parts for linking two coupling parts, e.g. adapter
A fifth wheel hitch has a base attachable to a towing vehicle, a seat attachable at a selected elevation above the base, and a kingpin adapter attachable to a kingpin of a trailer so as to permit rotation of the kingpin adapter relative to the kingpin about a kingpin rotation axis. The seat has a mouth which narrows in the longitudinal direction, such as by having a pyramidal shape. A bottom of the kingpin adapter has a shape which can cause both pivoting rotation of the kingpin adapter relative to the kingpin and longitudinal or transverse translational movement of the kingpin adapter and attached kingpin when the towing vehicle is driven to a position with the seat under the bottom of the kingpin adapter and the kingpin is jacked down so the kingpin adapter seats into the seat. Polymer handgrips on the base facilitate handling of the fifth wheel hitch.
B60D 1/01 - Traction couplings or hitches characterised by their type
B60D 1/07 - Multi-hitch devices, i.e. comprising several hitches of the same or of a different typeHitch-adaptors, i.e. for converting hitches from one type to another
A quick mount hitch connection for supports a towing accessory from a towing vehicle. An accessory shank is received within a sloped channel structure rising upwardly and rearwardly from horizontal. One of the faces defining the channel is open. A pivot bearing is provided along a bottom of the channel, such as by a pivot bar supported by the side walls of the channel structure and extending into the channel. A securing connector is provided at a location spaced from the pivot bearing, which can be removably fastened to simultaneously hold the accessory shank against the pivot bearing and to prevent the accessory shank from pivoting in the channel. The connection allows quick attachment, quick lowering, and changing the accessory from a usage position to a stowage position all by hand and without any tools.
B60D 1/46 - Traction couplingsHitchesDraw-gearTowing devices characterised by arrangements for particular functions for being adjustable vertically
B60D 1/52 - Traction couplingsHitchesDraw-gearTowing devices characterised by the mounting removably mounted
B60D 1/54 - Traction couplingsHitchesDraw-gearTowing devices characterised by the mounting collapsible or retractable when not in use, e.g. hide-away hitches
A quick mount hitch connection for supports a towing accessory from a towing vehicle. An accessory shank is received within a sloped channel structure rising upwardly and rearwardly from horizontal. One of the faces defining the channel is open. A pivot bearing is provided along a bottom of the channel, such as by a pivot bar supported by the side walls of the channel structure and extending into the channel. A securing connector is provided at a location spaced from the pivot bearing, which can be removably fastened to simultaneously hold the accessory shank against the pivot bearing and to prevent the accessory shank from pivoting in the channel. The connection allows quick attachment, quick lowering, and changing the accessory from a usage position to a stowage position all by hand and without any tools.
B60D 1/46 - Traction couplingsHitchesDraw-gearTowing devices characterised by arrangements for particular functions for being adjustable vertically
B60D 1/52 - Traction couplingsHitchesDraw-gearTowing devices characterised by the mounting removably mounted
B60D 1/54 - Traction couplingsHitchesDraw-gearTowing devices characterised by the mounting collapsible or retractable when not in use, e.g. hide-away hitches
A bike rack is mountable from a traditional receiver hitch and utilizes at least one of the two pedal crank arms of the bike for securing and supporting the bike. The pedal crank arm is received in a pedal crank receiver which tightens to the pedal crank arm and holds the pedal crank arm in a set rotational position. The pedal crank receiver is connected to a main shank of the bike rack for supporting the weight of the bike from the receiver hitch. The bike rack also includes a cradle supporting the bottom bracket shell of the bike, and a second support structure which holds the bike at a location spaced from the pedal crank receiver, both connected to the main shank.
B60R 9/048 - Carriers characterised by article-gripping, -retaining, or -locking means
B60R 9/06 - Supplementary fittings on vehicle exterior for carrying loads, e.g. luggage, sports gear or the like at vehicle front or rear
B60R 9/10 - Supplementary fittings on vehicle exterior for carrying loads, e.g. luggage, sports gear or the like specially adapted for sports gear for cycles
A quick mount hitch connection for supports a towing accessory from a towing vehicle. An accessory shank is received within a sloped channel structure rising upwardly and rearwardly from horizontal. One of the faces defining the channel is open. A pivot bearing is provided along a bottom of the channel, such as by a pivot bar supported by the side walls of the channel structure and extending into the channel. A securing connector is provided at a location spaced from the pivot bearing, which can be removably fastened to simultaneously hold the accessory shank against the pivot bearing and to prevent the accessory shank from pivoting in the channel. The connection allows quick attachment, quick lowering, and changing the accessory from a usage position to a stowage position all by hand and without any tools.
B60D 1/36 - Traction couplingsHitchesDraw-gearTowing devices characterised by arrangements for particular functions for facilitating connection, e.g. hitch catchers
A fifth wheel hitch has a base attachable to a towing vehicle, a seat attachable at a selected elevation above the base, and a kingpin adapter attachable to a kingpin of a trailer so as to permit rotation of the kingpin adapter relative to the kingpin about a kingpin rotation axis. The seat has a mouth which narrows in the longitudinal direction, such as by having a pyramidal shape. A bottom of the kingpin adapter has a shape which can cause both pivoting rotation of the kingpin adapter relative to the kingpin and longitudinal or transverse translational movement of the kingpin adapter and attached kingpin when the towing vehicle is driven to a position with the seat under the bottom of the kingpin adapter and the kingpin is jacked down so the kingpin adapter seats into the seat.
B60D 1/07 - Multi-hitch devices, i.e. comprising several hitches of the same or of a different typeHitch-adaptors, i.e. for converting hitches from one type to another
B60D 1/01 - Traction couplings or hitches characterised by their type
A fifth wheel hitch has a base attachable to a towing vehicle, a seat attachable at a selected elevation above the base, and a kingpin adapter attachable to a kingpin of a trailer so as to permit rotation of the kingpin adapter relative to the kingpin about a kingpin rotation axis. The seat has a mouth which narrows in the longitudinal direction, such as by having a pyramidal shape. A bottom of the kingpin adapter has a shape which can cause both pivoting rotation of the kingpin adapter relative to the kingpin and longitudinal or transverse translational movement of the kingpin adapter and attached kingpin when the towing vehicle is driven to a position with the seat under the bottom of the kingpin adapter and the kingpin is jacked down so the kingpin adapter seats into the seat.
B60D 1/07 - Multi-hitch devices, i.e. comprising several hitches of the same or of a different typeHitch-adaptors, i.e. for converting hitches from one type to another
A fifth wheel hitch has a base attachable to a towing vehicle, a seat attachable at a selected elevation above the base, and a kingpin adapter attachable to a kingpin of a trailer so as to permit rotation of the kingpin adapter relative to the kingpin about a kingpin rotation axis. The seat has a mouth which narrows in the longitudinal direction, such as by having a pyramidal shape. A bottom of the kingpin adapter has a shape which can cause both pivoting rotation of the kingpin adapter relative to the kingpin and longitudinal or transverse translational movement of the kingpin adapter and attached kingpin when the towing vehicle is driven to a position with the seat under the bottom of the kingpin adapter and the kingpin is jacked down so the kingpin adapter seats into the seat.
A set of adjustable side mount legs attach bed-side side-mount truck bed toolbox or similar container to most any truckbed configuration. A center section of the legs, which is adjustable in length, extends between two pivotally attached mounting brackets. The center section can be formed by two telescoping tubes, at least one of which has a series of bolt holes along its length, with a bolt attached through one of those bolt holes and through the other tube, such that the user can select and set the length between the two mounting brackets. One of the mounting brackets is attached by bolts to a bottom of the bed-side side-mount truck bed toolbox. The other mounting bracket of each leg is attached by rivet nut threaded inserts to a side of the truck bed sidewall.
A vibration minimization towing hitch includes a shank attachable into the receiver tube the towing vehicle, and a separately formed head, such as for supporting a tow ball. The head is pivotable through a partial range of motion relative to the head, such as allowing the tow ball to pivot up to 7° downward or up to 3° upward. One or more compressible inserts are disposed in a pocket between the shank and the head, for resisting the limited pivotal motion of the head relative to the shank. A user performs a part of the assembly using two insertable pins or bolts, with insertion of the second pin compressing a compressible bumper which is separate from the insert(s).
A brake controller has a control dial with a series of full color LEDs arranged around the dial. The dial with its LEDs is in a module mounted on the dash of the towing vehicle and connected by a cable to a main module mounted out of sight. The dial is a rotary encoder pushbutton mounted on the same circuit board as the LED chips. Status information is output using the LEDs primarily based on color. Substantially all setting input is provided solely by user manipulation of the dial, pushing the dial in to change setting input mode, with the value of the input reflected in the number of LEDs being lit in a color corresponding to the brake controller setting being changed, as the user rotates the dial either clockwise or counterclockwise to change setting values.
B60T 7/20 - Brake-action initiating means for automatic initiationBrake-action initiating means for initiation not subject to will of driver or passenger specially adapted for trailers, e.g. in case of uncoupling of trailer
B60K 37/06 - Arrangement of fittings on dashboard of controls, e.g. control knobs
B60T 7/04 - Brake-action initiating means for personal initiation foot-actuated
A tow bar assembly has a shank portion for attachment to the towing vehicle hitch, a pivot joint on a trailing end of the shank, and two arms extending from the pivot joint for attachment to the towed load. A stowage block on the shank includes two transversely oriented slots, for receiving a tab on the arms and thereby hold the arms in a transverse, horizontal stowage position. The arms each telescope between extended and retracted positions. A latch, having a retention shaft with a handle, automatically engages to lock the arm in the extended position when the trailing end of the arm is pulled to the extended position. The retention shaft has a shape which, depending on its rotational position as controlled by the handle, either allows the telescoping or interferes with the telescoping, locking the arm in the extended position.
B60D 1/167 - Draw-gear or towing devices characterised by their type consisting of articulated or rigidly assembled bars or tubes forming a V-, Y- or U-shaped draw gear
B60D 1/155 - Draw-gear or towing devices characterised by their type consisting of an elongated single bar or tube comprising telescopic or foldable parts
B60D 1/54 - Traction couplingsHitchesDraw-gearTowing devices characterised by the mounting collapsible or retractable when not in use, e.g. hide-away hitches
A tailgate hitch sensor system is installed by mounting a housing around the end of a receiver tube on the back of a hitch, and then plugging the system into both the OEM passenger side tailgate locking mechanism and the OEM driver side tailgate locking mechanism. A magnetically operated reed switch is positioned at the top of the housing, and a cover supporting a magnet is pivotally hinged to the housing so the cover has a normally closed position covering the receiver tube. When the cover is closed, the tailgate operates normally. When the cover is open, the electrical circuit for at least one stage of lowering the tailgate is de-activated.
A trailer coupler body is formed from sheet metal with walls defining a recess having a contact surface for bearing against the tow ball during towing. A latch pin opening is positioned in the right side wall and the left side wall of the trailer coupler body behind the recess and lower than the tow ball equator. A latch pin reinforcement crossmember is separately formed from sheet metal, and welded to extend between the right and left side walls adjacent the latch pin opening. When a latch pin is transversely inserted into the latch pin opening, it contacts the tow ball and holds the tow ball in place within the trailer coupler recess, in a position where the latch pin reinforcement crossmember will support the latch pin against deflection opposite the tow ball due to towing forces transmitted to or from the tow ball.
B60D 1/36 - Traction couplingsHitchesDraw-gearTowing devices characterised by arrangements for particular functions for facilitating connection, e.g. hitch catchers
A tri-ball trailer hitch coupler lock has three differently sized ball substitute members. A lanyard extends in two directions off a portion which adjoins the ball substitute members, with mating portions of a lock permanently attached to each free end of the lanyard. One portion of the lock terminates in a pin sized to fit in the latch pin opening of the coupler, and the other portion of the lock is matably lockable onto the pin after the pin has been extended through the coupler pin opening. The lanyard preferably passes through an opening in the adjoinment portion offset from the center.
A safety chain holder and release apparatus for releasable attachment to a hitch member of the prior art includes a hollow rectangular component with inner width and inner height dimensions selected such that the hollow rectangular component is slidable onto the hitch member from a front end of the hitch member. First and second hangers, each with a hook at a lower end thereof, are attached to corresponding first and second sides of the hollow rectangular component with the corresponding hooks extending outward from the hollow rectangular component, and with the hooks oriented upward such that a selected link of the safety chain can be dropped downward onto each hook. The hooks are each configured to bend to release the selected link from the hook when a force exerted on the hook by the safety chain exceeds a release force.
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
Goods & Services
Vehicle safety equipment, namely, weight calculators; Vehicle safety equipment for determining vehicle load weights based on vehicle acceleration or vehicle pitch changes; portable vehicle aftermarket accessories, namely, devices for determining vehicle load weight data for safe vehicle usage; portable devices pluggable into an onboard electronics port of a vehicle for calculating vehicle load weight data; automation systems comprised of an accelerometer and a wireless transmitter for generating vehicle load weight data; downloadable mobile application software for wirelessly transmitting and displaying data of vehicle weight, cargo/payload weight, towed load weight, tongue weight, pin weight, vehicle weight distribution and trailer brake gain; downloadable software for communicating and calculating vehicle load weights for safe towing and safe hauling
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
Goods & Services
Vehicle safety equipment, namely, weight calculators; Vehicle safety equipment in the nature of scales for determining vehicle load weights based on vehicle acceleration or vehicle pitch changes; portable vehicle aftermarket accessories, namely, devices for determining vehicle load weight data for safe vehicle usage; portable devices pluggable into an onboard electronics port of a vehicle in the nature of a portable electronic calculating scale for calculating vehicle load weight data; automation systems comprised of an accelerometer and a wireless transmitter for generating vehicle load weight data
A vibration minimization towing hitch includes a shank attachable into the receiver tube the towing vehicle, and a separately formed head, such as for supporting a tow ball. The head is pivotable through a partial range of motion relative to the head, such as allowing the tow ball to pivot up to 7° downward or up to 3° upward. One or more compressible inserts are disposed in a pocket between the shank and the head, for resisting the limited pivotal motion of the head relative to the shank. A user performs a part of the assembly using two insertable pins or bolts, with insertion of the second pin compressing a compressible bumper which is separate from the insert(s).
A vibration minimization towing hitch includes a shank attachable into the receiver tube the towing vehicle, and a separately formed head, such as for supporting a tow ball. The head is pivotable through a partial range of motion relative to the head, such as allowing the tow ball to pivot up to 7° downward or up to 3° upward. One or more compressible inserts are disposed in a pocket between the shank and the head, for resisting the limited pivotal motion of the head relative to the shank. A user performs a part of the assembly using two insertable pins or bolts, with insertion of the second pin compressing a compressible bumper which is separate from the insert(s).
A vibration minimization towing hitch includes a shank attachable into the receiver tube the towing vehicle, and a separately formed head, such as for supporting a tow ball. The head is pivotable through a partial range of motion relative to the head, such as allowing the tow ball to pivot up to 7° downward or up to 3° upward. One or more compressible inserts are disposed in a pocket between the shank and the head, for resisting the limited pivotal motion of the head relative to the shank. A user performs a part of the assembly using two insertable pins or bolts, with insertion of the second pin compressing a compressible bumper which is separate from the insert(s).
A bicycle mount which mounts a bicycle longitudinally over the bed rail of a pickup truck. A carriage of the bicycle mount supports the wheels of the bicycle above it. A pivot arm and hook is used as a primary vertical support for the bicycle, with the pivot arm mounted using slide channels of the carriage to allow both longitudinal and pivoting motion. The hooks is extendable on the pivot arm to support an upper section of the bicycle frame. A mounting system for the carriage is provided allows the carriage to mount into stake pockets of the bed rail, adjustable to accommodate different length bed rails and different stake pocket spacing on different pickup trucks.
B60R 9/10 - Supplementary fittings on vehicle exterior for carrying loads, e.g. luggage, sports gear or the like specially adapted for sports gear for cycles
B62H 3/08 - Separate supports or holders for parking or storing cycles involving recesses or channelled rails for embracing the bottom part of a wheel
B60R 9/06 - Supplementary fittings on vehicle exterior for carrying loads, e.g. luggage, sports gear or the like at vehicle front or rear
29.
PORTABLE BRAKE CONTROLLER WITH WIRELESS CONTROL INTERFACE
A brake controller (10) is provided as an inline plug between the towing vehicle (12) and the towed vehicle or trailer. The electronics including an accelerometer (IC2) and wireless communication radio (62) are potted within a brake controller housing package (20). There is no conventional display or input controls on the exterior of the brake controller package (20). Input settings, and possibly output messages, are communicated through a smartphone or similar software or hardware application. The brake controller (10) can identify a hazard lighting condition and avoid braking the towed vehicle during the hazard lighting condition, and can also distinguish when braking during signaling a turn, using the turn signals of the towing vehicle (12).
B60T 7/12 - Brake-action initiating means for automatic initiationBrake-action initiating means for initiation not subject to will of driver or passenger
B60T 13/74 - Transmitting braking action from initiating means to ultimate brake actuator with power assistance or driveBrake systems incorporating such transmitting means, e.g. air-pressure brake systems with electrical assistance or drive
B60T 17/22 - Devices for monitoring or checking brake systemsSignal devices
30.
PORTABLE BRAKE CONTROLLER WITH WIRELESS CONTROL INTERFACE
A brake controller (10) is provided as an inline plug between the towing vehicle (12) and the towed vehicle or trailer. The electronics including an accelerometer (IC2) and wireless communication radio (62) are potted within a brake controller housing package (20). There is no conventional display or input controls on the exterior of the brake controller package (20). Input settings, and possibly output messages, are communicated through a smartphone or similar software or hardware application. The brake controller (10) can identify a hazard lighting condition and avoid braking the towed vehicle during the hazard lighting condition, and can also distinguish when braking during signaling a turn, using the turn signals of the towing vehicle (12).
B60T 7/12 - Brake-action initiating means for automatic initiationBrake-action initiating means for initiation not subject to will of driver or passenger
B60T 13/74 - Transmitting braking action from initiating means to ultimate brake actuator with power assistance or driveBrake systems incorporating such transmitting means, e.g. air-pressure brake systems with electrical assistance or drive
B60T 17/22 - Devices for monitoring or checking brake systemsSignal devices
31.
Portable brake controller with wireless control interface
A brake controller is provided as an inline plug between the towing vehicle and the towed vehicle or trailer. The electronics including an accelerometer and wireless communication radio are potted within a brake controller housing package. There is no conventional display or input controls on the exterior of the brake controller package. Input settings, and possibly output messages, are communicated through a smartphone or similar software or hardware application. The brake controller can identify a hazard lighting condition and avoid braking the towed vehicle during the hazard lighting condition, and can also distinguish when braking during signaling a turn, using the turn signals of the towing vehicle.
B60T 8/17 - Using electrical or electronic regulation means to control braking
B60Q 1/44 - Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to indicate the vehicle, or parts thereof, or to give signals, to other traffic for indicating braking action
H01R 13/66 - Structural association with built-in electrical component
B60Q 1/00 - Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor
H01R 31/06 - Intermediate parts for linking two coupling parts, e.g. adapter
A brake controller has a control dial with a series of full color LEDs arranged around the dial. The dial with its LEDs is in a module mounted on the dash of the towing vehicle and connected by a cable to a main module mounted out of sight. The dial is a rotary encoder pushbutton mounted on the same circuit board as the LED chips. Status information is output using the LEDs primarily based on color. Substantially all setting input is provided solely by user manipulation of the dial, pushing the dial in to change setting input mode, with the value of the input reflected in the number of LEDs being lit in a color corresponding to the brake controller setting being changed, as the user rotates the dial either clockwise or counterclockwise to change setting values.
A brake controller has a control dial with a series of full color LEDs arranged around the dial. The dial with its LEDs is in a module mounted on the dash of the towing vehicle and connected by a cable to a main module mounted out of sight. The dial is a rotary encoder pushbutton mounted on the same circuit board as the LED chips. Status information is output using the LEDs primarily based on color. Substantially all setting input is provided solely by user manipulation of the dial, pushing the dial in to change setting input mode, with the value of the input reflected in the number of LEDs being lit in a color corresponding to the brake controller setting being changed, as the user rotates the dial either clockwise or counterclockwise to change setting values.
A brake controller has a control dial with a series of full color LEDs arranged around the dial. The dial with its LEDs is in a module mounted on the dash of the towing vehicle and connected by a cable to a main module mounted out of sight. The dial is a rotary encoder pushbutton mounted on the same circuit board as the LED chips. Status information is output using the LEDs primarily based on color. Substantially all setting input is provided solely by user manipulation of the dial, pushing the dial in to change setting input mode, with the value of the input reflected in the number of LEDs being lit in a color corresponding to the brake controller setting being changed, as the user rotates the dial either clockwise or counterclockwise to change setting values.
B60T 7/20 - Brake-action initiating means for automatic initiationBrake-action initiating means for initiation not subject to will of driver or passenger specially adapted for trailers, e.g. in case of uncoupling of trailer
G06F 3/02 - Input arrangements using manually operated switches, e.g. using keyboards or dials
B60T 7/04 - Brake-action initiating means for personal initiation foot-actuated
B60T 17/22 - Devices for monitoring or checking brake systemsSignal devices
B60T 8/171 - Detecting parameters used in the regulationMeasuring values used in the regulation
B60T 8/17 - Using electrical or electronic regulation means to control braking
A headache rack is formed substantially from sheet metal, including left and right uprights as part of a framing portion supporting a screen. The forward edge of the uprights has a concave curvature facing the cab and providing a cantilever, and a folded rearward edge causing the uprights to be considerably wider where they contact the pickup truck bed walls than they are at their tops. The framing portion is provided in three separable sections, connectable by the user using fasteners such as nuts and bolts, with a removable screen in the center frame portion.
A drive system for an automatic step including an actuator for moving an automatic step, a crank arm pivotally coupled to the actuator and pivotable about a central shaft, and a first link pivotally coupled to the crank arm, the first link having first and second ends. The linkage comprises one or more force mitigation mechanisms capable of reducing forces eccentric to the actuator. A first force mitigation mechanism engages when the step is deployed or nearly deployed by aligning the central shaft with the first and second ends of the first link along a first axis to generally place eccentric forces originating from the step against the central shaft of the crank arm instead of directly engaging the actuator.
A stake pocket anchor attaches an accessory to a vehicle stake pocket. The stake pocket anchor includes an anchor assembly hung from a tensioning member. The anchor assembly includes two channel members slidably attached to sandwich a center block, with an angled slide direction that enables sliding either upwardly and inwardly to a minimum anchor assembly width or downwardly and outwardly to a maximum anchor assembly width. During use, the anchor assembly gravitationally releases to its maximum anchor assembly width after being inserted through the stake pocket opening. The tensioning member is then used to vertically raise the anchor assembly within the stake pocket until a top of the anchor assembly contacts a bottom surface of the lip and thereafter allows further tightening of the anchor assembly against the bottom surface of the lip.
06 - Common metals and ores; objects made of metal
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
12 - Land, air and water vehicles; parts of land vehicles
Goods & Services
metal tool boxes for pickup truck beds; accessories for mounting into puck-based mounts in vehicle beds, namely, metal tool boxes; accessories for mounting into puck-based mounts in vehicle beds, namely, metal tie downs brake controllers for trailers; towing brake light converters Vehicle towing apparatus and structural parts therefor, namely, trailer hitches, trailer couplings, ball mounts, hitch balls, trailer hitch receivers, hitch bars, goose neck hitches, fifth wheel hitches, multi-fit hitches, front mount hitches, weight distribution hitches, hitch plates, folding hitches, towable bike racks, towable cargo carriers, hitch locks, coupler locks, tow hooks, tow hook mounts, tow strap mounts, clevis pin mounts, pintle hooks, torsion hitch kits comprised essentially of receiver tubing, couplers, hitch plugs, tow bars, towing wiring harnesses, towing wiring connectors, towing wiring adapters and towing wiring testers; Aftermarket parts for vehicles formed primarily of metal, namely, grill guards, bull bars, side bars, side steps, bumpers, bumper guards, cargo lids, tubular doors, nerf bars, headache racks, fender flares, spare tire carriers; running boards for vehicles; fitted seat covers for vehicles; mud flaps for vehicles; splash guards for vehicles; inner fender liners; tonneau covers; transfer tanks for vehicles; front-end protectors for vehicles; rear-end protectors for vehicles; bumper protectors; Vehicle accessories, namely, external rearview mirrors and external safety mirrors; side steps for vehicles; receiver hitch steps for vehicles; bed rails for vehicles; Brackets, mounting systems and associated hardware for mounting aftermarket accessories on the exterior of land vehicles, namely, brackets, mounting systems and associated hardware for mounting side bars, side steps, nerf bars, grill guards, bull bars or headache racks on the exterior of land vehicles
A hollow tubular shape is extruded from aluminum and used as a basic building block for one or more different truck accessories, such as a side step, grill guard and headache rack. The outside of the hollow tubular shape provides flat surfaces and angled edges over most of its periphery, including a major wall and several side walls. An attachment wall opposite the major wall includes attachment slides that enable the extrusion to be attached in numerous configurations, including to attachment brackets. The interior of the extruded hollow tubular shape includes openings to receive end caps.
B62D 65/16 - Joining sub-units or components to, or positioning sub-units or components with respect to, body shell or other sub-units or components the sub-units or components being exterior fittings, e.g. bumpers, lights, wipers
A pintle hitch apparatus has a base adapted at a forward end thereof for attachment to the towing vehicle. A hook member is attached to a rear end of the base and forms a cradle between the base and an upward oriented male portion of the hook member, the cradle configured to support the hitch ring member in a ring location. A latch member is pivotally attached to the base about a horizontal pivot axis such that the latch member can pivot from a closed position, where a rear portion of the latch member extends over the cradle above the ring location, to an open position where the rear end of the latch member is forward of the cradle. The latch member is weighted such that the latch member falls to the closed position when the latch member is in the open position.
B60D 1/28 - Traction couplingsHitchesDraw-gearTowing devices characterised by arrangements for particular functions for preventing unwanted disengagement, e.g. safety appliances
B60D 1/36 - Traction couplingsHitchesDraw-gearTowing devices characterised by arrangements for particular functions for facilitating connection, e.g. hitch catchers
A guard apparatus for mounting on a vehicle may comprise a guard structure comprising a plurality of bars joined together and having a major plane, a guard mounting structure configured to mount the guard structure to the vehicle in a manner permitting movement of the major plane of the guard structure between a first position and a second position, and a guard securing structure configured to secure the guard structure in the first position and release the guard structure to move toward the second position. The guard securing structure may be configured to secure the guard structure in the first position using magnetic attraction force.
B60R 19/46 - Bumper guards spring- or pivotally-mounted
B60R 19/38 - Arrangements for mounting bumpers on vehicles adjustably or movably mounted, e.g. horizontally displaceable for securing a space between parked vehicles
12 - Land, air and water vehicles; parts of land vehicles
Goods & Services
Aftermarket mechanical accessories, formed primarily of metal with no electrical parts, for mounting on the exterior of four wheeled motor vehicles, namely, headache racks in the nature of truck and vehicle racks for the exterior of four wheeled pick-up truck motor vehicles mounted at the front of the pickup truck bed and extending upward for protection of rearview windows from breakage, and associated mounting hardware
Rocker guards with automatic step are disclosed that provide robust protection from damage due to rock obstacles to rocker panels and also provide an automatic step to facilitate easy entry and exit from a lifted vehicle. Some embodiments of a rocker guard with automatic step for a vehicle (rocker) can include a body formed to protect rocker panels of a vehicle without damaging the rocker or a step located within the body when the step is in a retracted position, mounts attached to the body for attaching to a vehicle, and an actuator coupled to the step and the body, the actuator being configured to automatically lower the step out of the body to an extended position and retract the step to the retracted position. One embodiment of the invention has a body with an interior volume operable to receive a cartridge with an actuator for moving the automatic step and one or more support legs for extending the automatic step away from the body when the automatic step is coupled to the one or more support legs. This particular embodiment improves the economy of assembly by providing many of the internal workings of the automatic step in a single assembly piece that may be inserted into an end of the body, with minimal additional assembly required, in order to achieve a fully functional and attached step.
A pintle hitch apparatus has a pintle hook with a base portion adapted at a front end thereof for attachment to a towing vehicle, a bend portion extending rearward from the base, and a pin extending upward from a rear end of the bend portion. A recess is defined in a top surface of the bend portion, and a wear member is releasably attached in the recess such that a top surface of the wear member is above a top surface of the bend portion. A safety chain apparatus has an engagement device attached to a hitch member that engages a selected link of the chain and secures it in a support location where the chain is above a road surface. The engagement device is configured to release the selected link from the support location when a force exerted on the engagement device by the chain exceeds a release force.
12 - Land, air and water vehicles; parts of land vehicles
Goods & Services
Mounting systems and associated hardware for mounting side bars, side steps, nerf bars, grill guards, bull bars or headache racks on the exterior of land vehicles, comprised of mounting brackets, slotted supports, retainer pegs, bolts and nuts
A locking hitch ring apparatus includes a hitch ring member adapted at a rear end thereof for attachment to a towed vehicle. A drawpin hole defined by the hitch ring member is oriented such that an axis of the drawpin hole is oriented vertically when the hitch ring member is attached to the towed vehicle. A lock plate is movably attached to the hitch ring member such that the lock plate is movable from a closed position, where the lock plate blocks the drawpin hole, to an open position, where the drawpin hole is open, and a lock mechanism is operative to lock the lock plate in the closed position.
12 - Land, air and water vehicles; parts of land vehicles
Goods & Services
Aftermarket accessories for trucks, SUVs and vans, namely, nerf bars, side steps, receiver hitch steps, bed rails, bumpers, grille guards, bull bars, bumper protectors, front end protectors, mud guards, splash guards and tonneau covers
A pintle hitch apparatus has a base adapted at a forward end thereof for attachment to the towing vehicle. A hook member is attached to a rear end of the base and forms a cradle between the base and an upward oriented male portion of the hook member, the cradle configured to support the hitch ring member in a ring location. A latch member is pivotally attached to the base about a horizontal pivot axis such that the latch member can pivot from a closed position, where a rear portion of the latch member extends over the cradle above the ring location, to an open position where the rear end of the latch member is forward of the cradle. The latch member is weighted such that the latch member falls to the closed position when the latch member is in the open position.
B60D 1/28 - Traction couplingsHitchesDraw-gearTowing devices characterised by arrangements for particular functions for preventing unwanted disengagement, e.g. safety appliances
A ball mount head has a pivotable connection to a shank portion of a weight distribution hitch. A tilt selector receives a bolt through a hole and is connected to one of the shank portion and the ball mount head with two pegs extending into two of at least three connection points on the ball mount head. An operator selects which two out of the connection points to use, which determines and sets the location of the tilt selector bolt hole relative to the ball mount head, which in turn determines and sets the angular position of the ball mount head relative to the shank portion when the bolt is tightened.
A chain attachment insert has a body with a flat underside, and provides an open loop chain attachment for receiving a chain or hook in a socket in the bed of a truck. A T-bolt portion of the chain attachment insert is received in the socket. A hole through the body extends parallel to the axis of rotation defined by the T-bolt portion, and an interference peg is vertically slidable into the hole after rotation of the chain attachment insert relative to the socket. The interference peg then rests with a portion of the interference peg in the socket to interfere with and prevent the chain attachment insert from rotating relative to the socket. A lock secures the interference peg within the hole in the body.
A grill guard has an LED light bar positioned at a central location within the grill guard. The grill guard includes two vertically extending members and two horizontal members. The LED light bar is mounted within a casing which is integrated into the grill guard, with the LED light bar protected both by the grill guard and by the casing. The preferred mounting arrangement allows both pivoting and fore and aft movement of the LED light bar within the casing.
B60Q 1/00 - Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor
B60Q 1/04 - Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to illuminate the way ahead or to illuminate other areas of way or environments the devices being headlights
B60Q 1/26 - Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to indicate the vehicle, or parts thereof, or to give signals, to other traffic
B60R 19/50 - Bumpers, i.e. impact receiving or absorbing members for protecting vehicles or fending off blows from other vehicles or objects combined with, or convertible into, other devices or objects, e.g. bumpers combined with road brushes, bumpers convertible into beds with lights or registration plates
A ball hitch has an actuator substantially disposed in a towing ball member. The actuator includes a pivotable handle, which in the stowed position forms part of the outer profile of the ball, but which can be pivoted upward to be used to rotate a shaft portion of the actuator. As the shaft rotates, it rotates a paddle with a cam surface housed in a support base for the ball hitch, which pushes on two interference balls. In the stowed position, the cam surface maintains the interference balls projecting outward from openings in the support base to secure the ball hitch into the towing vehicle. When the actuator turns the shaft, the cam surface allows the balls to retract into the support base without changing elevation of the shaft and cam surface.
Jaws of a fifth wheel hitch have front arms that overlap each other. The jaws are linked for simultaneous movement at the same speed and corresponding positions when closing around the kingpin, and a pawl holds the jaws closed. A handle moves a pawl to unlock the hitch to allow ejection of the kingpin, and once the jaws are open the pawl holds them open. A position indicator is linked both to the handle and to one of the jaws. The position indicator moves between three indications: locked, unlocked and open.
An installation adapter includes four downwardly extending tabs which mate into the cylindrical ball tube of an underbed portion of a hitch. A center hole on the installation adapter designates a location for drilling a pilot hole upward through the bed of the pickup truck. Four arms on the installation adapter extend outward from the center hole, covering and protecting the top face of the hitch during hole sawing using the pilot hole downward through the bed material. The installation adapter is preferably molded from a brightly colored polymer material.
A hitch apparatus has a base with rearward extending upper and lower jaws. A pin extends upward from a rear end of the lower jaw. A lock plate is pivotally attached to a rear portion of the upper jaw limit can pivot through a pivot range from a closed position through a balanced position to an open position. When the lock plate is between the closed and balanced positions, gravity biases same toward the closed position where a locking portion of the lock plate extends downward into the gap and the closed stop prevents rearward movement thereof. The locking portion moves forward and upward as the lock plate pivots from the closed position to the open position, and when the lock plate is between the balanced and open positions, gravity biases same toward the open position where the locking portion extends upward.
B60D 1/28 - Traction couplingsHitchesDraw-gearTowing devices characterised by arrangements for particular functions for preventing unwanted disengagement, e.g. safety appliances
An above-bed structure having two or more feet is attached into a bed of a truck using inserts which can be removed or retracted to provide a flat, unobstructed truck bed. Each insert includes an above-bed cleat portion and a below-bed peg portion which is received in a below-bed socket. Each insert is received first vertically without substantial rotation into its socket and then by rotation to a terminal point wherein the insert is vertically held by the socket. The above bed structure is then placed onto the inserts such that the feet mate with the inserts to prevent the inserts from rotating away from their terminal point, thus preventing the inserts from being removed from their sockets. The attachment can be completed by inserting mounting pins into aligned holes on the cleat portions and the feet. In one embodiment, the feet are supported on a bed place section of the insert which is offset from the rotational axis of the insert.
B60D 1/07 - Multi-hitch devices, i.e. comprising several hitches of the same or of a different typeHitch-adaptors, i.e. for converting hitches from one type to another
B60D 1/52 - Traction couplingsHitchesDraw-gearTowing devices characterised by the mounting removably mounted
A locking hitch ring apparatus includes a hitch ring member adapted at a rear end thereof for attachment to a towed vehicle. A drawpin hole defined by the hitch ring member is oriented such that an axis of the drawpin hole is oriented vertically when the hitch ring member is attached to the towed vehicle. A lock plate is movably attached to the hitch ring member such that the lock plate is movable from a closed position, where the lock plate blocks the drawpin hole, to an open position, where the drawpin hole is open, and a lock mechanism is operative to lock the lock plate in the closed position.
A vehicle step assembly for mounting on a vehicle adjacent to the body of the vehicle may include an elongated step having opposite ends and a hollow space formed in the step and extending between the ends, and at least one support bracket with a mounting portion configured to mount on the vehicle and a support portion configured to support the elongated step, with the support portion having a support surface on which the elongated step rests. The assembly may also include at least one clamp mounting the step on the at least one support bracket, with the at least one clamp being configured to engage the step at substantially any location along the length of the step between the opposite ends.
A mounting bracket cantilevers a support arm off the side of a receiver tube of a hitch, using flats on the receiver tube or receiver tube lip to support the cantilevered weight. The support arm is configured to receive and support one or more mating electrical connection structures, with a plug/unplug direction matching the fore/aft direction of the towing vehicle. Flanges of the mounting bracket are pulled toward each other around the receiving tube using mounting bolts which extend on right and left sides of the receiving tube. The mounting bracket is preferably formed from stamped and bent sheet metal.
Rocker guards with automatic step are disclosed that provide robust protection from damage due to rock obstacles to rocker panels and also provide an automatic step to facilitate easy entry and exit from a lifted vehicle. Some embodiments of a rocker guard with automatic step for a vehicle (rocker) can include a body formed to protect rocker panels of a vehicle without damaging the rocker or a step located within the body when the step is in a retracted position, mounts attached to the body for attaching to a vehicle, and an actuator coupled to the step and the body, the actuator being configured to automatically lower the step out of the body to an extended position and retract the step to the retracted position.
An above-bed structure having two or more feet is attached into a bed of a truck using inserts which can be removed or retracted to provide a flat, unobstructed truck bed. Each insert includes an above-bed cleat portion and a below-bed peg portion which is received in a below-bed socket. Each insert is received first vertically without substantial rotation into its socket and then by rotation to a terminal point wherein the insert is vertically held by the socket. The above bed structure is then placed onto the inserts such that the feet mate with the inserts to prevent the inserts from rotating away from their terminal point, thus preventing the inserts from being removed from their sockets. The attachment can be completed by inserting mounting pins into aligned holes on the cleat portions and the feet. In one embodiment, the feet are supported on a bed place section of the insert which is offset from the rotational axis of the insert.
12 - Land, air and water vehicles; parts of land vehicles
Goods & Services
Truck and truck bed accessories, namely, tool boxes, dog storage boxes and tanks for storing liquid all specifically designed and adapted to fit in and be mounted to the bed of a truck; cargo storage bins specifically designed and adapted to fit in trucks or SUVs; truck bed storage organizers; cargo carriers for vehicles; hitch mounted cargo carriers for vehicles; ladder racks in the nature of ladder mounts specifically designed and adapted to fit in the bed of a truck; side rail and tailgate protectors, namely, fitted liners for protecting the side rails and tailgates of trucks and SUVs; step treads and step bars for vehicles, namely, nerf bars for vehicles, and steps for attachment to land vehicles; automotive aftermarket parts, namely, truck bed extender and storage box, [ truck headache racks, ] and structural parts and fittings therefor
06 - Common metals and ores; objects made of metal
12 - Land, air and water vehicles; parts of land vehicles
20 - Furniture and decorative products
Goods & Services
(1) Truck and truck bed accessories, namely tool boxes, dog boxes, chests, utility chests, storage containers and boxes, drawer slides, fluid storage tanks, lockers, tote boxes, and ladder racks; vehicle hitch cargo basket and carriers; side rail and tailgate protectors, step treads and step bars for vehicles; pick up truck headache racks; and mounting brackets and replacement parts for the foregoing.
12 - Land, air and water vehicles; parts of land vehicles
Goods & Services
Truck and truck bed accessories, namely, tool boxes, dog storage boxes and tanks for storing liquid all specifically designed and adapted to fit in and be mounted to the bed of a truck; cargo storage bins specifically designed and adapted to fit in trucks or SUVs; truck bed storage organizers; cargo carriers for vehicles; hitch mounted cargo carriers for vehicles; ladder racks in the nature of ladder mounts specifically designed and adapted to fit in the bed of a truck; side rail and tailgate protectors, namely, fitted liners for protecting the side rails and tailgates of trucks and SUVs; step treads and step bars for vehicles, namely, nerf bars for vehicles, and steps for attachment to land vehicles; automotive aftermarket parts, namely, truck bed extender and storage box, [ truck headache racks, ] and structural parts and fittings therefor
06 - Common metals and ores; objects made of metal
12 - Land, air and water vehicles; parts of land vehicles
20 - Furniture and decorative products
Goods & Services
(1) Truck and truck bed accessories, namely tool boxes, dog boxes, chests, utility chests, storage containers and boxes, drawer slides, fluid storage tanks, lockers, tote boxes, and ladder racks; vehicle hitch cargo basket and carriers; side rail and tailgate protectors, step treads and step bars for vehicles; pick up truck headache racks; and mounting brackets and replacement parts for the foregoing.
A bearing guide for a hitch allows lateral movement of the hitch. The bearing guide is elevated relative to the bearing surface. Two trucks roll on wheels each about their own elevated guide for fore-and-aft rolling of the hitch point. The bearing guide also provides a keyway which receives a locking key. The locking key is supported on both sides of the keyway by a plunger control rod, and can be unlocked by pulling and rotating a handle. When the towing vehicle is driven to relocate the hitch point, the locking key reengages itself into a different keyway on the bearing guide.
A hitch includes a control linkage having a single handle on a control bar. The control linkage doubles to provide both a positive safety feature and a movement feature to the hitch, permitting single handed operation of both the positive safety feature and the opening of the hitch with the single handle. A release throw of four inches or less opens jaws of the hitch. A latch is included which can secure the control bar in either a secured position or in a release position. A follower is secured to one of the jaws to maintain timing between the jaws, and the follower doubles as a hitch position indicator so an operator to easily visually discern the position of the hitch. By including kingpin recesses of appropriate location and depth on the jaws, the hitch can be used with or without a lube plate over the skid plate.
A hitch includes a control linkage having a single handle on a control bar. The control linkage doubles to provide both a positive safety feature and a movement feature to the hitch, permitting single handed operation of both the positive safety feature and the opening of the hitch with the single handle. A release throw of four inches or less opens jaws of the hitch. A latch is included which can secure the control bar in either a secured position or in a release position. A follower is secured to one of the jaws to maintain timing between the jaws, and the follower doubles as a hitch position indicator so an operator to easily visually discern the position of the hitch. By including kingpin recesses of appropriate location and depth on the jaws, the hitch can be used with or without a lube plate over the skid plate.
A hitch includes a hitch engagement, a hitch tongue and a connecting bridge portion which are forged or otherwise formed as a single, integral, monolithic metal structure. The hitch engagement includes a recess exposed on its bottom side which significantly reduces the weight and material cost of the hitch. The hitch includes generally uniform wall thicknesses with the exception of stress pyramids of greater thickness disposed on the side walls of the bridge portion. A front wall to the hitch engagement is provided which slopes relative to the longitudinal axis of the hitch and connects the side walls bounding the recess. An anti-vibration device can be used within the recess to prevent the hitch from rattling in the hitch receiver.
06 - Common metals and ores; objects made of metal
Goods & Services
metal truck bed accessories, namely tool boxes; dog boxes; metal chests; metal containers for the storage and transportation of goods, fitted for use with truck beds; and metal fluid storage tanks, fitted for use with truck beds
